LA LIGA : As Colombia’s James Rodriguez Arrives At Real Madrid, Barca’s Xavi Departs For New York City

Colombia’s World Cup star James Rodriguez is finally arriving at the Glitzy Galactico Gatosphere (oops, ‘Gato’ in Spanish actually translates to ‘cat’) that is Real Madrid!

Remember, Real are the Kings of Post-World Championship Star purchases (i.e. Ronaldo in 2002, Cannavaro in 2006, Toni Kroos 2014 etc) and Rodriguez is another stellar addition to their cast. Need we remind you that Rodriguez never favoured a move to the Premiership in the first place? This was obviously an advantage for Real, who have already prepared a villa for him in Madrid (probably the one Gareth Bale rejected previously)

Rodriguez is expected to either take Angel di Maria’s or Benzema’s place in the team, but he could also play alongside the Frenchman (or as a False 9) if Ronaldo moves into a more central position.

Whatever the case, visiting fans looking for Real Madrid tickets this coming season will likely enjoy a new Colombian flavour, although it won’t be in the shape of Falcao (remember the failed move from Atletico?)

Meanwhile, in Barcelona’s stalwart of 23 years, Xavi Hernandez is expected to announce his exit to join New York City later today.

The club captain who turned up at the Camp Nou as a hopeful 11-year-old, went on to play a record 723 matches for them. He also won 22 trophies at Barcelona but leaves the club after 16 seasons with the first team. Xavi, who is also a star attraction at the club, has immensely helped in the sale of millions of global FC Barcelona tickets over the season, as fans flock from all over the globe to see him link-up with Andres Iniesta.

The club captain has negotiated a settlement on the two years left on his contract, which has allowed him to join Man City’s MLS Franchise club, New York City FC